Commercial Litigation Business Development Specialist

Job

Updated:
Dec 9, 2025

Location:

Chicago, IL, United States

Category:
Business Development

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About Kirkland & Ellis

At Kirkland & Ellis, we don't just meet the standard for legal excellence - we set it. Our culture is built on teamwork, ingenuity and an unwavering commitment to continuous growth. We tackle the most sophisticated legal challenges with bold ideas and innovative solutions, powered by the exceptional experience and ambition of our 7,000+ people, including 4,000+ attorneys, across 22 offices worldwide.

Our dedicated professionals share our lawyers' commitment to excellence and show up each day to do meaningful work that helps drive global business, investment and innovation forward.

What You'll Do

Are you a proactive, detail-driven marketing and business development professional ready to support one of the world's most sophisticated litigation practices? As a Commercial Litigation Business Development Specialist, you'll play a key role within our Marketing & Business Development (MBD) Department, partnering closely with attorneys and colleagues across the Firm-locally in Chicago and internationally-to advance strategic growth initiatives for Kirkland & Ellis' Litigation practices

In this role, you'll help shape compelling pitches, proposals, events, research deliverables and client-facing materials that showcase the depth and reach of our global litigation capabilities. You'll bring strong judgment, polished communication skills, keen attention to detail and the ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced environment while ensuring every deliverable reflects the Firm's standard of excellence.

* Support Business Development Strategy by developing a strong understanding of the Firm's litigation capabilities, client relationships and market position to help execute strategic objectives for the commercial litigation practice and individual attorneys.

* Develop High-Impact Pitches & Proposals by drafting tailored, substantive materials, customizing precedent content and tracking pitch activity to evaluate pipeline trends and outcomes.

* Maintain Core Practice Collateral by updating practice descriptions, website content, brochures, experience databases and matter lists to ensure accurate, engaging and timely materials.

* Lead Rankings & Submissions Efforts by preparing directory nominations, surveys and award submissions for relevant litigation practices.

* Plan & Execute Events including seminars, receptions, conferences, sponsorship activities and client-facing engagements that highlight the Litigation team's capabilities.

* Conduct Research & Produce Intelligence Reports on clients, prospects, competitors and industries to inform go-to-market strategies and support practice growth.

* Support Cross-Department Initiatives by collaborating with colleagues in Business Development (BD), marketing, communications and research on firmwide projects and priorities.

What You'll Bring

* Bachelor's degree; with 5+ years of professional experience, with a background in litigation, business development, marketing, financial services or project management.

* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact confidently and professionally with senior attorneys, clients and colleagues.

* Strong project management and organizational abilities, with experience managing competing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

* High attention to detail and polished writing, editing and proofing skills, including experience preparing marketing documents and client-facing content and using Power Point

* Ability to take initiative and operate effectively in ambiguity, making informed decisions and driving projects forward.

* Collaborative mindset, with openness to feedback and the ability to work seamlessly within a team.

* Proficiency with technology and research tools, including online databases and standard office software; familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems such as Inter Action or Salesforce is preferred.

* Analytical skills, including the ability to synthesize data, understand complex legal concepts and translate them into clear, compelling narratives.

* Professional presence, business savvy and discretion when handling sensitive information.

If you're energized by impactful work that elevates one of the world's leading Litigation practices-and you're eager to shape sophisticated marketing and business development initiatives-we'd love to hear from you!

Compensation

The base salary range below represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in Chicago. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations. At Kirkland & Ellis, we consider compensation more than just a base salary. We offer an exceptional range of flexible benefits including comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and retirement.

We also offer personal support and tailored learning and development opportunities all designed to…